A backup almost never happens out of nowhere. The line gives you warnings — most people just don't recognize them. Here's the list:
- Multiple drains slow at once. One slow drain is a local clog. Two or more is the mainline.
- Gurgling toilet when you run the washer or dishwasher. Air is escaping back through the trap because the line isn't draining fast enough.
- Water rises in the shower when you flush the toilet. Same cause — the line is restricted and water is finding the lowest exit.
- Sewer odor in the basement or near the floor drain. The trap is dry, or worse, the line is partially blocked and venting back.
- Lush, green patch on the lawn. Your lateral is leaking — fertilizer for the grass, future cave-in for you.
- Roots showing up on the camera. Even a small intrusion will catch toilet paper, then everything else.
- It's been more than 5 years since the line was cleaned and you live near big trees. That's not a sign, that's a calendar reminder.
If you've got two or more of these, get a camera down the line before it picks the worst possible night to back up.
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